ADVANTAGES:
Mastectomy is done in one day, there is no need to have radiation therapy.

Some women have greater peace of mind with a mastectomy instead of a lumpectomy. In complicated cases of ductal cancer in situ this option may be recommended.

DISADVANTAGES:
A mastectomy removes the entire breast, and leaves a long scar and flat chest area.

This surgical treatment is usually not medically necessary for ductal cancer in situ.

If desired, you may have the option of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. A mastectomy does not make you immune to recurrence. Cancer may recur at the incision spot, or at other places in your body at a later time.